Crestfallen

Hunk

It is strange.
Very strange in fact, when you find yourself sitting in between the person who runs the whole kingdom and the land beyond and her trusty advisor who has helped literal generations of kings and queens through tough times and your best friend, the farm boy, is acting like they've been friends for years.

It's so strange that it's to the point of fascinating. Hunk wasn't sure what to do in this situation. Was he supposed to say something? He would introduce himself but they already knew who he was. Why...and how?

He had so many questions and very little answers had come because Lance couldn't stop himself from talking the queen's ear off.

"I couldn't help but notice the beautiful earrings you're wearing, Allura. They're very...alluring, if you know what I mean." Lance winked, the young woman rolling her eyes and stealing a glance at Hunk for help. He was a little taken aback that she was looking at him but was flattered none the less.

"Uh...um excuse me, your highness. Pardon my friend, he can be a little much. Would you care telling us...why...why we're here and how you know our names or is this one of those situations where we don't get to ask questions?" Hunk smiled nervously, trying his best to get them back on topic. Allura smiled back, Hunk letting out a sigh of relief.

"Of course, Hunk. I believe we can answer all your questions in due time." Allura chuckled softly, looking over at Coran for help.
"You see, our kingdom is in a time of great conflict and struggle. Coran and I are looking for warriors. Warriors that could lead Altea onto a path of brilliance and victory." Allura paused, thinking about her next words carefully. "Ever since my parents' passing, I've been lost and have had trouble trying to figure out the next step that I need to take in this war among the Galrans. Luckily, I may have just found the answer to my troubles all thanks to my father's secret work, Coran's helpful guidance and six warriors. Now, I believe that two of those brave warrior spirits lie in you."

There was long pause before anyone spoke. It seemed that the queen had finished speaking but Hunk had no idea how to respond. He looked to Lance for help but frowned when he realized that his friend was just as confused as he was. 

"Um...Queen Allura?"

"Please, just call me Allura. We may be partners now, after all." She smiled warmly, awaiting Hunk's response.

"Sure. Why not? Um...Allura. I don't know what to say. I don't even know what I would be getting myself into. I'm not even sure what you're asking of us. I'm sorry but I find myself very confused. I think Lance can agree. Poor bastard looks baffled." Hunk rambled, head jumbled with a million questions. 

"Baffled is an understatement. This is great, Hunk! This is our chance to make it big." Lance yelled, jumping from his seat. Hunk shook his head, standing slowly and grabbing Lance by his wrist. He pulled him along and away from the the queen despite his many protests.

"No, Lance. We have no idea what we're getting ourselves into. As far as we know we could be killed or worse. Besides. You know I have to take care of the shop."

"Hunk. This trip could save your shop. Save our families and our lives. This may be a risk but I'm willing to take it. We have a chance to save the entire kingdom and become heroes and you're hesitating. Stop being cowardly and help me out. Join the secret forces with the goddamn queen. Change the world." Lance spoke with a twinkle in his eye, a big, mesmerized smile on his face. "It's your loss if you decide against it but I'm going. That's my final and very easy decision." Lance punched Hunk in the shoulder before running back to their secret meeting. Hunk couldn't help the grin that found it's way onto his lips, rubbing the place where Lance had hit him. Of course it hadn't hurt but, the sentimental feeling was what made the gesture so important. Would it be so awful to run off for a good cause? Was it a smart decision to rush into this blindly? Hunk couldn't be sure until he had actually agreed and the thought of possibly never knowing just how important his part in this war could be was already bugging him. With one last glance towards the small group, Hunk made his choice. 

After rejoining the group, Hunk met eyes with Allura. "My Queen." He spoke with a wavering voice, still fairly unsure of this life changing decision. The man got down on one knee, bowing his head. "I will agree to your proposal."

"Wonderful." Allura clasped her hands together, delighted by this proclamation.

"With a few terms." Hunk stood as he continued. "I wish to know more about my duties as a warrior and what dangers we will be facing."

"Of course-"

"And I ask that you and your men take care of our families." Hunk's voice had become clear as day now. He was more than serious about this statement, knowing how it could be seen to someone of Allura's status. "Lance and I work everyday to support our loved ones, just scraping by, barely able to feed our families on some nights. I only wish to know that they will be taken care of while I am away. These are my conditions. If they are not met then I will not accept." Standing his ground, Hunk refused to turn and face Lance. This was about him and the queen. Allura bit at her lip, contemplating this bargain. Coran noticed this struggle and placed a gentle hand on her shoulder.

"Your highness." He whispered. "I would suggest that you take this deal. It's the least we can do for his service. I'm not sure if anyone else can take the power meant for him but, I advise you to show your strength." Coran removed himself after he spoke, nodding towards Hunk.

After a moment, Allura opened her eyes, determination flashing in her eyes. "You're very brave bargaining with royalty...I admire that. I also believe that it is incredibly selfless and kind of you to be thinking of others in this situation." She paused, collecting herself and looking at Hunk with certainty. 

"We agree to your terms and would be glad to explain more." Hunk smiled, letting out a breath he had been holding. 

"Thank you, Allura."

"You're welcome." She returned the warmth, nodding towards Lance. "Now. I expect you both to be at the castle tomorrow. I will send my adviser to your homes in the morning. Pack your things and say your goodbyes. We start your training when the sun rises above the mountains." Allura turned towards her home, stopping once more. "I look forward to working with you both. Good day, gentlemen." With that, they were left to themselves, thoughts of their undetermined future running through their minds.

Oh my word. I'm so sorry ya'll. Life has been crazy. I'm not sure if I'll continue this or not. Let me know if you're interested in me continuing or if maybe you'd like me to do some other ideas in the comments. Have a wonderful day.